1986 Duhart-Milon Rothschild
By Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild
1986 Duhart-Milon Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
The formidable 1986 vintage from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild hails from an era of Bordeaux producers that sought to craft spectacles in the glass with long-term ageing potential. It emphatically showcases the fortitude of Pauillac's terroir in an epochal year for the left bank. My affection for Bordeaux has afforded me opportunities to indulge in its temporal narrative; specifically, the 1986 vintage from Pauillac stands as a testament to the region's winemaking prowess.
Decades of Elegance: The Maturation of a Pauillac Stalwart
Respect for tradition and a commitment to quality define Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild's winemaking philosophy. The 1986 Duhart-Milon Rothschild parts from mere appreciation into an enduring investment piece worthy of any serious collector's cellar. Its evolution over decades implies a sophistication sought by astute investors and connoisseurs alike.
Distinctive Character of a Prime Vintage
The beguiling nature of the 1986 Duhart-Milon Rothschild, now in its distinguished maturity, unfolds with impeccably integrated tannins and a voluptuous bouquet that marries classic blackcurrant notes with hints of truffle and cedar. The vintage's hallmark lies in its exquisite structure—robust at release, now delightfully harmonious after time has woven its magic.
An exceptionally dry growing season bolstered the concentration of flavours in this vintage, resulting in a wine befitting the term 'classically wrought'. While 1986 saw some chateaus grappling with tannic boldness that demanded patience, Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild struck an enviable balance, bringing forward a wine that has capably stood the test of time without forgoing its generous fruit core.
The beauty of investing in fine wine is its transformative journey echoed through centuries-old craftsmanship and nature’s whimsy. As with cherished works of art, the 1986 Duhart-Milon Rothschild commands a prestigious spot where patience rewards and provenance upholds value. Its confluence of climatic serendipity and Pauillac’s legendary soil reiterates not just the vitality but also the wisdom in investing in such finite treasures. Thus, it remains one to cherish, testament to both the resilience and finesse of an exceptional harvest from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild.
Market price (HKD)
HK$8,020.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
120
Scores and tasting notes
Still youthful yet evolving at a glacial pace, the plum/ruby-colored 1986 has excellent depth, plenty of richness, some spicy wood, as well as a classy bouquet of herbaceous black currants and cedar. The wine is still revealing tannin, but it is not intrusive. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012. Last tasted, 3/01.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 2002